When you sell a car there is always some important used car paperwork to deal with. Its best to get it in order before you sell the car. Trying to run around later to get a title (for example), could scare away potential buyers.

When you sell a car here is a list of important used car paperwork to deal with…

• The Title (Certificate of ownership, “pink slip”, etc).

• Vehicle registration.

• All receipts for parts you have replaced.

• All receipts for repairs done.

• Safety check if needed (Varies by state).

• Smog check if needed (varies by state – mandatory in California and is customary for the seller to take care of).

• Bill of sale: I like to include something to let them know that the “sale is final” and that “the seller is not responsible for any future repairs” and have them initial and date it. I suggest you keep a hard signed copy of every bill of sale with all the buyers contact information.

• Receipt for deposit: I only accept a cash deposit. I like to put something on the deposit receipt that clearly states that if they change their minds – they lose their deposit. Have them date and initial that too.

Having all these items ready when your buyer shows up can make the difference between you being able to sell a car sooner with a lot less hassles.

The alternative is wasting your time by having to show your car to millions of people because “buyers” bailed out on you because they don’t want to wait around for you to get the paperwork in order. Plus the other thing is that buyers are less inclined to buy a car if they think you won’t be able to get a title. I know I would feel that way too. Unless the used car I’m considering is the killer deal of the universe, then I would probably not waste my time even looking at a car where the buyer was sketchy about whether they can produce a title or not.

Make it as easy as possible for your buyer. The more hoops you make them jump through then the more likely they’ll say “screw it!” and go look at someone else’s car instead.

Legalities of your car paperwork will vary from country to country, so don’t take this car paper work information here as the way you do things everywhere.

So call your local DMV or whatever government agency is in charge of handling shuffling used car paperwork and find out exactly what is needed.